According to Bossenecker in RIDE THE DEVIL'S HERD, Billy apparently incorrectly thought that the group speaking with Leslie were talking about the recent shriff's election. Claiborne had supported Dave Neagle, one of two Democrats running against rge winner, Republican Jerome Ward, who was considered an Earp supporter. Apparently in response to one of the group, Billy said, "Anyone who would vote for Ward is a son of a bitch!" Frank told Claiborne that they were not speaking about politics and not to interfere. Billy let loose with a stream of curses, in response to which Leslie manhandled him out the door. You know Billy's response and the result.
So according to Parsons/DeMattos, the scenario I described in my post is "pure fiction." Fair enough. They're the guys in the know. That said, from what they have written, I still fail to understand... more
Re: Once again, thanks Bob. — Bob Cash,Thu May 25 21:26
Dumb as it sounds, a misunderstanding about local politics leading to one thing leading to another leading to what it ultimately led to. (Claiborne sounds like a real piece of work, but then Leslie apparently... more
Olds, you should finish reading this highly educational post and then immediately order RIDE THE DEVIL'S HERD. Bossenecker is no slouch when it comes to research, but in this book his skills are combined... more
edifying, Bob, among other things. You've certainly furthered my education on this subject, for which many thanks. Problem is, the more I know, the more I remain partial to my original position. I... more
Here's a motive that Ken Vail posited for Leslie, or any number of Cochise County characters. https://nediscapp.com/discussion.cgi?disc=39627&article=34553&search_page=2&search_term=Leslie
Bob I say this sincerely - you are the main reason I drop in on this discussion board. Your knowledge and research and measured delivery always impresses me. Keep it up. Cheers PB
Thank you, Peter. I really apptreciate that. I wish my posts would lure more world class authors and researchers (unlike me) back to the board, like you. I'm sure people would be more interested in how... more
B.J., all I meant by my post is that none of those mentioned post here nearly as much as they used to. I think you have done an excellent job in trying to maintain a site with a welcoming vibe.
Of all the people who post here, you have the most balanced historical perspective of events, protagonists and antagonists. I have learned that no matter how objective most historians are and try to... more
So the conjecture is that the motive would have been the reward money offered by this Protective Association? ($1,000 then would be roughly $30,000 now.) As motives go, plausible enough, I suppose, though... more